Melanie Conklin

Recent Articles

Speaker Vos Struggles to Maintain Control

Speaker Vos Struggles to Maintain Control

Assailed by GOP rebels. ‘Conspiracy theorists have taken over the party.’

Imposter Electors Tied to Fitzgerald, Kleefisch

Imposter Electors Tied to Fitzgerald, Kleefisch

And Republican AG candidate Adam Jarchow. Democrats say it disqualifies them from holding office.

Democrats Push Abortion Rights Bill

Democrats Push Abortion Rights Bill

Without Roe, old state law would prevail, making abortion a felony, with penalty of up to 6 years in prison

Kaul Says Feds Should Prosecute State’s GOP False Electors

Kaul Says Feds Should Prosecute State’s GOP False Electors

10 Wisconsin Republicans sent phony electoral ballots for Trump to Congress.

Will 10 Wisconsin Republicans Who Tried to Hijack 2020 Election Be Punished?

Will 10 Wisconsin Republicans Who Tried to Hijack 2020 Election Be Punished?

They submitted imposter Electoral College ballots to Congress.

Robin Vos ‘Selling Out Democracy’?

Robin Vos ‘Selling Out Democracy’?

Hintz looks back at four years as Assembly minority leader and how Republicans ‘lost their way.’

Assembly Democrats Elevate New Generation

Assembly Democrats Elevate New Generation

Youth, diversity on the rise. But Rep. Anderson offers protest on workplace disability issue.

Evers Makes the New York Times Crossword

Evers Makes the New York Times Crossword

14 down with the clue “Wisconsin governor Tony.”

Hintz Will Quit As Assembly Minority Leader

Hintz Will Quit As Assembly Minority Leader

Democrat will resign position in January, cites need to spend more time with family.

Many Older Teens Eligible for Booster Shots

Many Older Teens Eligible for Booster Shots

State officials say those 16 or older who got the Pfizer vaccine should get booster shot.

Erpenbach Won’t Run For Reelection

Erpenbach Won’t Run For Reelection

Democratic state senator and 22-year veteran was central figure during Act 10 protests.

Evers Signs Law to Prevent Rape Kit Backlog

Evers Signs Law to Prevent Rape Kit Backlog

Attorney General Kaul campaigned on the issue and Republicans had stalled the bill.

Kaul Joins States Against Abortion “Gag” Rule

Kaul Joins States Against Abortion “Gag” Rule

24 attorneys general seek overthrow of Trump rule cutting family planning funding and advice.

Republicans Vote Against Medicaid Transgender Care

Republicans Vote Against Medicaid Transgender Care

Legislative committee vote keeps Wisconsin out of compliance with a court non-discrimination order.

Senate Approves “Born Alive” Abortion Bill

Senate Approves “Born Alive” Abortion Bill

Health care workers could be charged with a felony.

Legislature Plans Culture War Against Evers

Legislature Plans Culture War Against Evers

Fall session could include “born alive” abortion bill, forbidding teachers from discussing race and more.

AG Kaul Joins Fight Against Texas Abortion Law

AG Kaul Joins Fight Against Texas Abortion Law

Kaul filed an amicus brief supporting a challenge of the new abortion ban.

McCoshen Won’t Run for Governor

McCoshen Won’t Run for Governor

Lobbyist and former Thompson aide had traveled state for a year.

Will Donors Punish Legislators Pushing Election Lies?

Will Donors Punish Legislators Pushing Election Lies?

Wisconsin Realtors says it will still back conspiracy theorist Rep. Janel Brandtjen.

Republican Schools Colleagues on Election Lies

Republican Schools Colleagues on Election Lies

Elections chair Sen. Kathy Bernier runs 2.5 hour meeting with experts and verifiable facts.

Kleefisch Borrows “Tampon Tax” Idea From Democrat

Kleefisch Borrows “Tampon Tax” Idea From Democrat

Ending "pink tax" on feminine products was opposed by Walker-Kleefisch administration.

Taxpayers Funding Gableman’s Travel

Taxpayers Funding Gableman’s Travel

Trips by election probe leader to MyPillow conspiracy event and discredited Arizona audit.

Republicans Divided Over Election Audits

Republicans Divided Over Election Audits

Are you with Team Vos or Team Brandtjen? Fish for unproven problems or overturn 2020 election?

It’s Official, Kleefisch Running For Governor

It’s Official, Kleefisch Running For Governor

Filed to run, but using non-profit to 'hide her donors, abuse the tax code,’ Democratic Party charges.

Sen. Jacque’s Wife Asks Public to Get Vaccinated

Sen. Jacque’s Wife Asks Public to Get Vaccinated

Five of eight family members have tested positive for COVID-19.

Trump Praises Brandtjen ‘Election Audit’

Trump Praises Brandtjen ‘Election Audit’

Puts more pressure on Vos as Pocan calls for firing Gableman.

Sen. Agard Unveils Marijuana Legalization Bill

Sen. Agard Unveils Marijuana Legalization Bill

Outside a dispensary in Illinois, the state lawmaker called for legalization.

Gableman Defends Election Audit

Gableman Defends Election Audit

Former justice had an altercation with a Milwaukee poll worker during November election.

Grothman, Fitzgerald Oppose Bill Protecting Pregnant Workers

Grothman, Fitzgerald Oppose Bill Protecting Pregnant Workers

House votes 315-101 for it, with even Congressman Tom Tiffany voting yes.

Vos Backtracks on Election Audit

Vos Backtracks on Election Audit

After criticizing Brandtjen for pushing yet another audit, he caves. “It’s red meat for the base.”

State Elections Commission Refutes Rep. Brandtjen

State Elections Commission Refutes Rep. Brandtjen

Republican legislator "should stop spreading these wild conspiracy theories,” commission chair says.

Legislative Session Much Ado About Nothing

Legislative Session Much Ado About Nothing

School spending issue gaveled in and out. Failed veto override generates many speeches.

State Elections Chair Wants Arizona-Style Audit

State Elections Chair Wants Arizona-Style Audit

"Donald Trump won this election in Wisconsin," Rep. Brandtjen declares.

Suit Charges ALEC Unlawfully Helps Republicans

Suit Charges ALEC Unlawfully Helps Republicans

Nonprofit's help to GOP politicians in Wisconsin, other states, violates its tax status?

GOP Donor, Not Legislature, Announces Agenda

GOP Donor, Not Legislature, Announces Agenda

WMC reveals that surprise legislative session seeks to override Evers veto of bill slashing unemployment benefits.

GOP Bill Targets ‘Silicon Valley Elites’

GOP Bill Targets ‘Silicon Valley Elites’

Accusing Facebook and Twitter of silencing conservatives, they propose new rules and fines for companies.

Whose Vision Will Prevail In Budget Battle?

Whose Vision Will Prevail In Budget Battle?

Republicans got their way in budget rewrite, but Evers' vetoes loom.

What Democrats Got In GOP Budget

What Democrats Got In GOP Budget

Long list of proposals killed or altered in final Assembly bill. Yet four Democrats voted for it.

Pollinator Protection Package Proposed

Pollinator Protection Package Proposed

Bills to benefit Badger State bees aim to 'achieve a bright, healthy, and buzzing future.'

Legislature Grabs Power Over Opioid Lawsuit Settlements

Legislature Grabs Power Over Opioid Lawsuit Settlements

Bill passed with no discussion. Unconstitutional power grab, opponents say.

Assembly Passes Ban on Vegetable Burgers

Assembly Passes Ban on Vegetable Burgers

Targeting Beyond Burgers, Smart Bacon or Just Eggs, all made from plants.

Bill Takes Aim at Beavers

Bill Takes Aim at Beavers

Muskrats Assembly unanimously approves the shooting of beavers, muskrats if they damage a highway.

Rushed Redistricting Bill Drafted In March

Rushed Redistricting Bill Drafted In March

No author listed for bill, but drafting notes show it was requested by Robin Vos.

Assembly Leaders Accused of ‘Systemic Racism’

Assembly Leaders Accused of ‘Systemic Racism’

Republicans use racist retaliation, punish free speech, Democratic legislators charge.

Can We Talk About Marijuana? Democrats Ask

Can We Talk About Marijuana? Democrats Ask

GOP legislative leader won’t allow a vote or even discussion of medical marijuana.

State Capitol Discriminates, Legislator Charges

State Capitol Discriminates, Legislator Charges

Signs asking unvaccinated people to wear masks is “discrimination,” Republican insists.

Evers Credited for Budget Surplus

Evers Credited for Budget Surplus

Federal stimulus money, new Foxconn contract, Evers call for state agency cuts all credited by nonpartisan analysis.

Baldwin Pushes Abortion Rights Bill

Baldwin Pushes Abortion Rights Bill

Federal legislation guarantees equal access to abortion services throughout the U.S.

Bill Allows Billboard Ads To Hire Corrections Workers

Bill Allows Billboard Ads To Hire Corrections Workers

State law currently doesn’t allows this, but legislators cite need for more staff.

State Law Makes Abortion a Felony

State Law Makes Abortion a Felony

If U.S. Supreme Court overrules Roe v. Wade as many predict, 1849 Wisconsin law will be activated.

AG Kaul Testifies Before Congress on Voting Rights

AG Kaul Testifies Before Congress on Voting Rights

The Wisconsin Attorney General argued against purges of voters from the rolls.

GOP Sends Mixed Message To Evers

GOP Sends Mixed Message To Evers

Republican legislators trash his budget, then ask to meet with him.

Proposed Changes in Election Law Illegal?

Proposed Changes in Election Law Illegal?

Republican legislators pushing changes that may violate numerous federal laws.

GOP Lawmakers Seek to Prevent Non-Citizens from Voting

GOP Lawmakers Seek to Prevent Non-Citizens from Voting

State constitution does not explicitly prohibit non-citizens from voting.

Public Testimony Backs Evers Budget

Public Testimony Backs Evers Budget

Hearings held only in state’s smaller cities but Evers budget favored 284 to 30 by speakers.

Who’s the Most Right Wing Of All?

Who’s the Most Right Wing Of All?

Conservative group ranks state’s most conservative members of Congress and Legislature.

A Tale of Two Elections

A Tale of Two Elections

Green Bay city attorney investigation finds no outside interference with November election, despite GOP legislators’ claims.

State Restrictions Often Bar Disabled Voters

State Restrictions Often Bar Disabled Voters

Republican legislators latest proposals will make this worse.

The Beguiling Blandness of Devin LeMahieu

The Beguiling Blandness of Devin LeMahieu

Senate majority leader is conservative but eschews the nasty style of Robin Vos.

Godlewski Will Run for U.S. Senate

Godlewski Will Run for U.S. Senate

State Treasurer is fourth Democrat to announce for seat held by Ron Johnson.

Legislature Tries Again to Control Federal Stimulus Money

Legislature Tries Again to Control Federal Stimulus Money

Evers twice vetoed bills to do this. Assembly’s latest bills violate federal rules, LRB warns.

Parties Bash Heads on State Budget

Parties Bash Heads on State Budget

Evers budget and Republican proposals are miles apart. A compromise won’t be easy.

Two Legislators Delete Their Emails As Policy

Two Legislators Delete Their Emails As Policy

Under state law, legislators are allowed to delete emails that are considered public record.

Legislature Has Dramatic Debate

Legislature Has Dramatic Debate

Over its power, purpose, prestige... and whether Robin Vos hates Tony Evers.

Legislators Violate Open Records Law?

Legislators Violate Open Records Law?

Two Republicans pushing elections law changes accused of a “dishonest” response.

Bill Would Stop Lawmakers From Deleting Their Emails

Bill Would Stop Lawmakers From Deleting Their Emails

Currently, legislators and their staff can delete emails that are public record.

Bill Forces Public Hearings By Legislature

Bill Forces Public Hearings By Legislature

With enough signatures, public could petition for hearings on proposals legislators refuse to consider.

State Senate Beset by Culture Wars

State Senate Beset by Culture Wars

Rush Limbaugh vs. Black history, LGBT protectors vs GOP objectors, the arguments get ugly.

Honoring Limbaugh But Not Black History

Honoring Limbaugh But Not Black History

Republican legislators back resolution to honor Rush, resist celebrating Black History Month.

Legislators Want Say Over Pandemic Funds

Legislators Want Say Over Pandemic Funds

Bill would require Gov. Evers to consult with Legislature on allocating federal dollars.

Will Budget Hearings Be Superspreader Events?

Will Budget Hearings Be Superspreader Events?

Mask wars pit Democrats against Republicans in Legislature.

The Return Of Reince

The Return Of Reince

Priebus may run for governor. Will Trump endorse him?

GOP Lawmakers Blasted for Racial Disparities Task Force Comments

GOP Lawmakers Blasted for Racial Disparities Task Force Comments

Email from Majority Leader Jim Steineke to Assembly Speaker Robin Vos showed little expectation of producing actual legislation.

Baldwin Joins Call for Domestic Terrorism Investigation

Baldwin Joins Call for Domestic Terrorism Investigation

Senate resolution expresses the "imminent and pervasive threat" of white supremacist terrorism.

Eliminating Mask Mandate Could Cost Wisconsin $49 Million in Food Assistance

Eliminating Mask Mandate Could Cost Wisconsin $49 Million in Food Assistance

Ending public health emergency voids state eligibility for emergency food assistance.

Do State Election Laws Need Reform?

Do State Election Laws Need Reform?

After months of Trump’s false claims, legislators still squabbling, but a bipartisan bill is possible.

GOP Rejects Special Session on Unemployment

GOP Rejects Special Session on Unemployment

Republicans gavel in and then quickly adjourn session.

Uihleins Gave $4 Million to Group Pushing Capitol Rally

Uihleins Gave $4 Million to Group Pushing Capitol Rally

Uline owners Richard and Elizabeth Uihlein criticized for supporting Tea Party Patriots.

GOP State Legislators Asked Pence to Not Certify Election

GOP State Legislators Asked Pence to Not Certify Election

15 legislators signed the letter. Four of them serve on Assembly elections committee.

Evers Offers Folksy State-of-State Speech

Evers Offers Folksy State-of-State Speech

Addressing pandemic, broadband access, redistricting and “broken” unemployment system.

GOP Bill Assigns Electoral Votes by Congressional District

GOP Bill Assigns Electoral Votes by Congressional District

State Rep. Gary Tauchen's bill would put partisanship, gerrymandering "on steroids."

Barnes Rips Kenosha DA On Blake Shooting

Barnes Rips Kenosha DA On Blake Shooting

A non-prosecuting DA "as negligent as the officers,” Lt. Governor charges.

Legislators Argue Over Masks, Capitol Access

Legislators Argue Over Masks, Capitol Access

And much more. Senate allows virtual attendance but Vos requires in-person Assembly.

Pocan Criticizes Assembly GOP For Mask Policy

Pocan Criticizes Assembly GOP For Mask Policy

Assembly won't require masks, after Speaker Robin Vos appeared in ad encouraging mask wearing.

State Clears Unemployment Claims Backlog

State Clears Unemployment Claims Backlog

Evers promotes Amy Pechacek to secretary designee of Department of Workforce Development.

Trump Won State, GOP Legislators Declare

Trump Won State, GOP Legislators Declare

Wisconsin Elections Commission chair Ann Jacobs has received threats to her children and family.

Kaul Blasts Republicans Disputing Election

Kaul Blasts Republicans Disputing Election

AG says their “baseless attacks" undermine democracy and employ “Jim Crow strategy” to disenfranchise voters.

State Rep. John Nygren Resigns

State Rep. John Nygren Resigns

Surprise decision by Finance Committee member from Marinette known for his work on opioid crisis.

Think Small on Thanksgiving, Evers Urges

Think Small on Thanksgiving, Evers Urges

Big gatherings spread COVID-19, he warns. Governor celebrating only with his wife.

Kaul Sues Legislature Over Lame Duck Laws

Kaul Sues Legislature Over Lame Duck Laws

Lawsuits can’t be settled, consumers lose out on potential settlements, AG charges.

State Response To COVID-19 a Trainwreck, Pocan says

State Response To COVID-19 a Trainwreck, Pocan says

The congressman wants an end to the partisan battle over a COVID-19 relief bill.

Vos Floats Ideas, Blasts Evers on Pandemic

Vos Floats Ideas, Blasts Evers on Pandemic

Evers has asked legislators to meet since April. Vos still won't convene Legislature.

State Gives Food Banks $10 Million

State Gives Food Banks $10 Million

Agencies like the Hunger Task Force have seen demand go up 70% during pandemic.

GOP Donors That Fought Evers’ Health Orders Catch COVID-19

GOP Donors That Fought Evers’ Health Orders Catch COVID-19

Billionaire couple Dick and Liz Uihlein have tested positive for COVID-19.

Rep. Tusler Says Election Inquiry for ‘Transparency’

Rep. Tusler Says Election Inquiry for ‘Transparency’

Rep. Joe Sanfellippo raised the possibility of subverting the results of the election.

Legislative Houses Elect Their Leaders

Legislative Houses Elect Their Leaders

Democrats call for action on COVID-19 crisis.

Legislator Pushes Illegal Election of Trump

Legislator Pushes Illegal Election of Trump

Committee chair wants to order electors to ignore state vote and give Trump the state’s electoral votes.

Purple Wisconsin Still Has Dark Red Legislature

Purple Wisconsin Still Has Dark Red Legislature

Republican legislators continue to win big with minority of state's vote.

Election Shakes Up State Senate Leadership

Election Shakes Up State Senate Leadership

LeMahieu becomes Majority Leader after Fitzgerald's election to Congress.

Vos, GOP Use Faked Photos Against Opponents

Vos, GOP Use Faked Photos Against Opponents

Assembly incumbents Robin Vos and Dan Knodl use doctored photos to attack opponents.

Is Trump a Problem for Down Ballot Republicans?

Is Trump a Problem for Down Ballot Republicans?

If he is, Wisconsin's gerrymandered districts could soften the blow.

Could Vos Be Tossed Out By Voters?

Could Vos Be Tossed Out By Voters?

His handling of pandemic blasted by opposition groups.

Vos Makes Appointments to Racial Disparities Task Force

Vos Makes Appointments to Racial Disparities Task Force

This, after the speaker refused to hold a session on racial justice legislation.

Voter Intimidation Is Illegal, Kaul Warns

Voter Intimidation Is Illegal, Kaul Warns

Threatening force, barring voters could result in jail time, attorney general warns.

Will Pro-Trump Militia Threaten Election Polls?

Will Pro-Trump Militia Threaten Election Polls?

State Elections Commission planning for gun-wielding intimidators at polling places.

DOJ Finishes Jacob Blake Shooting Investigation

DOJ Finishes Jacob Blake Shooting Investigation

Consultant, former Madison Police Chief Noble Wray will review case next.

Wisconsin Representative Votes Against Condemning QAnon

Wisconsin Representative Votes Against Condemning QAnon

Other Wisconsin republicans joined Democrats to condemn the conspiracists.

People’s Maps Commission Plans First Hearing

People’s Maps Commission Plans First Hearing

State commission seeks to end gerrymandering, Thursday is first of 8 hearings across Wisconsin.

Did Pompeo Violate Federal Law With Visit?

Did Pompeo Violate Federal Law With Visit?

The secretary of state's visit to the state capitol may have broken law against his office engaging in domestic political activities.

Trump At Issue in State Assembly Races

Trump At Issue in State Assembly Races

“Everything is nationalized” and could drive turnout, votes in legislative races.

Court Rules Undocumented Immigrants to be Counted in Census

Court Rules Undocumented Immigrants to be Counted in Census

State wins lawsuit against Trump administration over its intent to exclude undocumented immigrants from being counted

Can Wisconsin Create Fair District Maps?

Can Wisconsin Create Fair District Maps?

Former Republican State Sen. Dan Kapanke admits gerrymander, calls for fair maps.

1/3 of Wisconsinites Won’t Take COVID-19 Vaccine?

1/3 of Wisconsinites Won’t Take COVID-19 Vaccine?

New poll shows many state residents wouldn't take the vaccine.

GOP State Legislators Draw National Scorn

GOP State Legislators Draw National Scorn

Country notices they spent one minute gaveling in and out of police reform special session.

Evers Offers Disaster Help to Kenosha

Evers Offers Disaster Help to Kenosha

No-interest loans for businesses hurt by burnings, looting, vandalism.

Trump Says Evers Accepts Federal Troops

Trump Says Evers Accepts Federal Troops

But Evers says he’s authorized more Wisconsin guard troops as officials argue over what should be done.

Evers, Vos Battle Over Jacob Blake Shooting

Evers, Vos Battle Over Jacob Blake Shooting

Governor demands legislative special session on police reforms. Vos accuses Evers of “dictating liberal policies”.

Riots in Kenosha After Police Shooting

Riots in Kenosha After Police Shooting

Black man, Jacob Blake shot in the back multiple times; Evers demands action, state probe launched.

Does Kanye West Live in Cody, Wyoming?

Does Kanye West Live in Cody, Wyoming?

That’s what his state presidential nomination papers say. Is that a problem?

Shirley Abrahamson Honored by Historical Society

Shirley Abrahamson Honored by Historical Society

Evers ordered the society's reading room to be named for the former Chief Justice.

Vos Thinks Lame-Duck Session Didn’t Go Far Enough

Vos Thinks Lame-Duck Session Didn’t Go Far Enough

The speaker would like to strip more power from Evers.

Legislature Hasn’t Met in 100 Days

Legislature Hasn’t Met in 100 Days

No action since April 15 on pandemic, police reform, budget shortfalls.

Newly Out Legislator Sees Hope

Newly Out Legislator Sees Hope

Rep. Greta Neubauer joins a growing list of out LGBTQ legislators around the country.

Everybody Wants Action From Gov. Evers

Everybody Wants Action From Gov. Evers

Madison protesters want protection. Republican legislators want tougher policing.

Pocan Bill Bans Liability Waivers From Crowds

Pocan Bill Bans Liability Waivers From Crowds

During pandemic would prevent gatherings of 1,000 or more, including Trump campaign events, to require attendees to sign waivers.

Evers Rejects UW System Rules on Sex Assault

Evers Rejects UW System Rules on Sex Assault

System changes, in line with new federal regulations on sex harassment and assault, could have 'chilling' effect on victims, Evers says.

Trump Suit Against TV Station Questioned

Trump Suit Against TV Station Questioned

Lawyer for Rhinelander TV station that ran anti-Trump ad calls for suit’s dismissal: it’s the “highest form of protected speech.”

Right Wing Group Pushes Prison Reform

Right Wing Group Pushes Prison Reform

State can’t afford new prison, Badger Institute notes, so policymakers should look to reforms used by other states.

Could Floyd’s Killing Lead to State Reform?

Could Floyd’s Killing Lead to State Reform?

Evers calls for long-delayed bill on deadly use of force by police to be taken up by Legislature.

Evers Joins Phone Call With Trump

Evers Joins Phone Call With Trump

President urges governors "to get tougher” with protestors. Evers says nothing.

Evers Appoints Three New UW Regents

Evers Appoints Three New UW Regents

Effective immediately, will help shift direction of UW System policies.

Wisconsin’s Lousy Record for Women in Politics

Wisconsin’s Lousy Record for Women in Politics

Two politicos talk about getting more women in elected offices.

Walker Opposes Bailing Out States

Walker Opposes Bailing Out States

In a New York Times op-ed the former governor trashed state government and called for directing aid to workers.

Is Wisconsin a ‘Failed State’?

Is Wisconsin a ‘Failed State’?

The Guardian questions if state can perform its core job, "protecting people’s basic security.”

Wisconsin Relaxes Food Stamps Rules

Wisconsin Relaxes Food Stamps Rules

Residents using SNAP benefits can now buy groceries online.

Janet Bewley Is New State Senate Minority Leader

Janet Bewley Is New State Senate Minority Leader

Sen. Bewley sets her sights on overcoming GOP opposition, re-taking the senate.

Evers Orders Budget Cuts

Evers Orders Budget Cuts

State losing billions in revenue due to the economic shutdown.

The Return of Brad Pfaff

The Return of Brad Pfaff

Former state agriculture secretary running for state senate, the very body that ousted him.

Many Democratic Legislators Resigning

Many Democratic Legislators Resigning

But Assembly Minority Leader Hintz seeks reelection to his post.

GOP Donor Uihlein Calls COVID-19 “Overhyped”

GOP Donor Uihlein Calls COVID-19 “Overhyped”

Liz Uihlein, co-founding of Uline, is a major Trump donor spending millions on right-wing causes.

Healthcare Orgs Support Safer At Home Extension

Healthcare Orgs Support Safer At Home Extension

More than a dozen major organizations in Wisconsin signed letter praising the extension.

State Senate Proposal Bashes China’s Leaders

State Senate Proposal Bashes China’s Leaders

This is "where the Communist Party of China is stripped naked,” Senate President Roger Roth says.

Detente Ends for Evers, Legislature

Detente Ends for Evers, Legislature

Cooperation during pandemic ends as Vos, Fittzgerald blast governor on election timing.

Change Lame Duck Law, Baldwin Urges Legislators

Change Lame Duck Law, Baldwin Urges Legislators

Republican law passed to limit governor’s power prevents him from getting federal funding for COVID-19.

GOP Lame-Duck Law Blocks COVID-19 Aid

GOP Lame-Duck Law Blocks COVID-19 Aid

State GOP was warned of unintended consequences to their law in 2018.

Sen. Fred Risser Retires After 64 Years

Sen. Fred Risser Retires After 64 Years

He is the longest serving legislator in the United States.

Will State Legislature Take Action?

Will State Legislature Take Action?

Fitzgerald cancels Senate session, but Republicans expect extraordinary session later this spring.

Democrats Call for Paid Sick Leave Bill

Democrats Call for Paid Sick Leave Bill

Under state law, as workers have to self-quarantine, they are left with no pay.

Legislators Take No Action on Pandemic

Legislators Take No Action on Pandemic

Some states passing laws, funding, Vos and Fitzgerald say "no need" for Wisconsin Legislature to meet.

Wisconsin A Toss-Up in 2020

Wisconsin A Toss-Up in 2020

Electoral analysis shows Wisconsin is among seven states that will decide presidential election.

Evers Addresses COVID-19 in Wisconsin

Evers Addresses COVID-19 in Wisconsin

Governor declares state of emergency, urges closure of large events.

Drugged Driving On The Rise In Wisconsin

Drugged Driving On The Rise In Wisconsin

Law Enforcement is concerned about ability to identify and prosecute drugged drivers.

Supreme Court Case Could Affect Abortion Access in Wisconsin

Supreme Court Case Could Affect Abortion Access in Wisconsin

The High Court weighs case that could effectively overturn Roe v. Wade.

Scott Walker Battles Eric Holder

Scott Walker Battles Eric Holder

And former Wisconsin governor doesn’t do so well.

State Assembly Pushing For Constitutional Convention

State Assembly Pushing For Constitutional Convention

State GOP is pushing the legislature to join others around the country in an attempt to ratify controversial amendments to the U.S. Constitution.

AG Objects to Relaxed Lead Pipe Rules

AG Objects to Relaxed Lead Pipe Rules

Kaul joins other Attorneys General in objection to new EPA rules for lead pipe removal.

Assembly Rejects Bipartisan Rape Kit Bill

Assembly Rejects Bipartisan Rape Kit Bill

Republicans pass bill with "poison pills' that will force veto by Gov. Evers.

Will Republicans Kill Rape Kit Bill?

Will Republicans Kill Rape Kit Bill?

30 states passed bills to assure rape kits are processed. Only Wisconsin has made it partisan, expert testifies.

Evers Supports Greater Funding For Farm Crisis Bills

Evers Supports Greater Funding For Farm Crisis Bills

Speaker Robin Vos is proposing a bigger investment, and Evers is on board.

Sexual Assault Bill Becomes Partisan Issue

Sexual Assault Bill Becomes Partisan Issue

Bipartisan bill ready to pass but gets hijacked by Republicans adding provisions on school choice, ICE.

Farmers Forgotten?

Farmers Forgotten?

Despite bipartisan reception, farm legislation delayed during special legislative session.

Who’s the Most Partisan?

Who’s the Most Partisan?

Republican legislators suddenly embrace bipartisan peacemaking, blast Evers as partisan.

Bid to Amend Constitution Gets Weird

Bid to Amend Constitution Gets Weird

GOP legislators back constitutional convention and chair mistakes one black lawmaker for another.

Republicans Bash Evers Before He Speaks

Republicans Bash Evers Before He Speaks

Condemn governor as too partisan, but his State of State speech is mostly conciliatory.

Clock Ticking for Legislature

Clock Ticking for Legislature

Short session, just two months planned for 2020. Can two parties agree on any legislation?

Nation Watches State Voter Purge Battle

Nation Watches State Voter Purge Battle

Number of names to be struck from voting list is 9 times higher than Trump’s 2016 margin in Wisconsin.

Women Legislators Discuss Hate Mail

Women Legislators Discuss Hate Mail

Zamarripa gets hate mail at home and office, on weekly basis.

Lawsuit Would Take Marsy’s Law Off April Ballot

Lawsuit Would Take Marsy’s Law Off April Ballot

Advocacy groups, attorneys argue victims rights constitutional amendment leaves voters in the dark on its sweeping impact.

Ryan, Boehner, Gingrich to Team Up

Ryan, Boehner, Gingrich to Team Up

Three former speakers will work to keep Republican control of most state legislatures.

Poll Shows Trump Ahead in State

Poll Shows Trump Ahead in State

MU Poll shows him beating the major Democratic candidates, though within margin of error.

Evers Orders National Guard Leader to Resign

Evers Orders National Guard Leader to Resign

Governor calls for sweeping changes in how sexual assault and harassment is reported, investigated.

Poor Hit Again by Food Aid Cuts

Poor Hit Again by Food Aid Cuts

Trump follows Walker model to cut more, as many as 25,000 in state will lose aid.

Wisconsin Ranks 17th in Generosity

Wisconsin Ranks 17th in Generosity

Though much better at volunteering than giving money.

Kaul Pushes Assembly for Rape Kit Bill

Kaul Pushes Assembly for Rape Kit Bill

AG wants legislation to ensure no more backlog of untested sexual assault kits.

Where Have All The Hunters Gone?

Where Have All The Hunters Gone?

Millennials less likely to hunt. To counter decline state looks to women and children.

How Homeless Got Frozen Out

How Homeless Got Frozen Out

With no explanation, Fitzgerald stopped bipartisan bill providing grants to homeless shelters.

Legislature Passing Few Bills

Legislature Passing Few Bills

Assembly and Senate seldom in session. Just 21 bills passed in 2019 while typical average is more than 300.

Assembly Debates Christmas, er, Holiday Tree

Assembly Debates Christmas, er, Holiday Tree

"I don’t expect a big issue” or “holy wars”, Rep Hintz says. Wrong.

Meet Evers’ New Ag Advisor, Brad Pfaff

Meet Evers’ New Ag Advisor, Brad Pfaff

Governor’s fired Agriculture Secretary now the Department of Administration’s director of business and rural development.

Evers, Blank Plan $15 Minimum Wage

Evers, Blank Plan $15 Minimum Wage

Raises for all state and UW-Madison workers in 2020/2021

Gasp, It’s a Holiday Tree!

Gasp, It’s a Holiday Tree!

So says Gov. Evers about Capitol tree, with the added theme, “Celebrate Science.”

Paging 402,000 People Lacking Health Care

Paging 402,000 People Lacking Health Care

Evers administration urges enrollment in state health insurance marketplace. You have until December 15.

State Jobs Will Go Unfilled

State Jobs Will Go Unfilled

Republican Finance Committee co-chairs refuse Evers request for 60 new hires in state government.

Op Ed: Vos, Fitzgerald Scared of Gun Reforms
Op Ed

Vos, Fitzgerald Scared of Gun Reforms

Scared bill could threaten reelection of some GOP legislators — and give Evers a win.

Democrats Push Paid Family Leave Bill

Democrats Push Paid Family Leave Bill

Modeled after other states, bill creates insurance trust fund paid for entirely by employees.

Sean Duffy Joins the “CNN Family”

Sean Duffy Joins the “CNN Family”

And he’s already getting attacked for peddling conspiracy theories.

State Resists Immunizations

State Resists Immunizations

Wisconsin ranks 35th in percent of immunized children, yet bipartisan bill to address problem is stalled in committee.

Rep. Anderson Votes Against His Own Accommodation. Why?

Rep. Anderson Votes Against His Own Accommodation. Why?

Republicans pass controversial rule changes, and accommodation for quadriplegic lawmaker, on party line votes.

“Hemp is as American as the Constitution”

“Hemp is as American as the Constitution”

Industrial hemp has great potential as a cash crop for Wisconsin farmers.

Suicide Texting Hotline Money Finally Released

Suicide Texting Hotline Money Finally Released

Republican-led Joint Finance Committee held up releasing funds for almost three months

Evers’ Requests AG Opinion on State Agency Rule making

Evers’ Requests AG Opinion on State Agency Rule making

This is the first request made public on the DOJ's website that allows for public opinion.

Pot Tourism in Illinois?

Pot Tourism in Illinois?

Could Illinois become a tourist destination for Wisconsinites that like marijuana?

The “Fitz” Train Is Rolling

The “Fitz” Train Is Rolling

Scott Fitzgerald’s run for Congress embraces Trump and anti-union Right to Work law.

State Task Force Hears From Chemical Lobby

State Task Force Hears From Chemical Lobby

American Chemistry Council fights regulation of dangerous chemicals.

What Polls Show About the Legislature

What Polls Show About the Legislature

Voters have net positive view of Legislature but negative toward Vos, split on Fitzgerald.

Choose Life Program Still a Mystery

Choose Life Program Still a Mystery

President says group had nothing to do with bill that would give it $500,000 from the state.

Kaul Rejects Settlement with Oxycontin

Kaul Rejects Settlement with Oxycontin

Attorney General says estimated $12 billion settlement with 23 states doesn’t go far enough.

Kaul Says Lame Duck Law Costs Taxpayers

Kaul Says Lame Duck Law Costs Taxpayers

AG says legislative oversight stalls cases, makes lower settlements for taxpayers likely.

Can New Leader Clean Up WEDC?

Can New Leader Clean Up WEDC?

Evers appointee Melissa Hughes takes over long-troubled state jobs agency.

50 Years of Jim Sensenbrenner

50 Years of Jim Sensenbrenner

The numbers, the gruffness, the tales. And who will run for his seat?

Working for Clean Energy a Tricky Task

Working for Clean Energy a Tricky Task

Polls show bipartisan support, but how you talk about it matters.

State Has Bad Roads, Low Fatalities

State Has Bad Roads, Low Fatalities

Latest rankings show mixed results, but increased state funding could help.

State Treasurer Backs Climate-Friendly Investing

State Treasurer Backs Climate-Friendly Investing

“We believe in science” and “investment in renewable energy," Godlewski declares.

No UW Regents at Hearing on Speech

No UW Regents at Hearing on Speech

Not one attended hearing on UW Regents policy that suspends or expels students for disrupting speeches.

Wisconsin Has 15 Hate Groups

Wisconsin Has 15 Hate Groups

More than in Iowa or Illinois. Southern Poverty Law Center finds 30% rise in U.S. hate groups.

About That Mandela Barnes Controversy

About That Mandela Barnes Controversy

Media firestorm about college degree part of wide-ranging Isthmus feature story.

Examining the Dark-Store Loophole

Examining the Dark-Store Loophole

Loophole lets big box stores lower their taxes while effectively raising taxes for residents.

Foxconn Jobs Not Worth The Cost

Foxconn Jobs Not Worth The Cost

New analysis shows the cost to taxpayers per job outweighs the return.

GOP Suit Slaps Kaul on Lame Duck Laws

GOP Suit Slaps Kaul on Lame Duck Laws

AG contests lawsuit, calling it “attempt to undermine public safety in Wisconsin.”

Vos Previews Assembly’s Fall Agenda

Vos Previews Assembly’s Fall Agenda

Possible legislation in three areas: water quality, suicide prevention and adoption.

Student Debt Earns State a Bad Ranking

Student Debt Earns State a Bad Ranking

Report finds Wisconsin 6th highest in percent of former students with debt.